Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the Vanua Levu Road Project funded by the People’s Republic of China is expected to commence in 2025 and is expected to be completed by 2028.
Speaking in Parliament, Rabuka said the $300 million project is the flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Fiji.
The Prime Minister said the project will fulfill the Government’s objective to promote economic growth, foster the fair distribution of development gains to the population, and improve social conditions, particularly in rural areas.
He said the project will also facilitate better access to health facilities for those in the districts of Vaturova, Koroalau, Wailevu, Solevu, Vuya, and Nabouwalu with a population of approximately 10,000.
He said poor road quality hinders access and is costly for those residing in the districts of Nadi, Solevu, and Vuya.
“The project will complete a major link in the strategic network and provide a fast route for traffic around the island of Vanua Levu.”
The Prime Minister said the feasibility report is now being finalised and will be studied by the China International Development Cooperation before work commences.
Rabuka added that the project seamlessly continues the Fiji Road Upgrading Programme which commenced soon after independence by the Alliance Government.
